Ever dream of shredding the streets or landing that first ollie, but your wallet feels as empty as a broken skateboard? You’re not alone! The world of skateboarding can seem expensive, especially when you’re just starting out and trying to figure out what gear actually matters.
Choosing a skateboard deck can be a real headache. You want something that rides well and lasts, but you also need to keep your budget in check. It’s tough to know if a cheaper deck will just fall apart after a few sessions or if it’s a hidden gem. This is where a lot of new skaters get stuck, feeling like they have to spend a fortune to have fun.
But what if we told you that you *can* find awesome, reliable skate decks without breaking the bank? In this post, we’re diving deep into the world of budget-friendly decks. We’ll show you what to look for, what to avoid, and how to score a deck that will help you progress without emptying your savings. Get ready to find your next ride!
Our Top 5 Cheap Skate Decks Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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Moose Blank Skateboard Deck – Premium 7-Ply Maple Construction | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
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Blank Skateboard Decks | 9.3/10 | Check Price |
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Powell Peralta Sakura Yosozumi Tiger Skateboard Deck | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
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Powell Peralta Steve Caballero Gundam Skateboard Deck | 8.8/10 | Check Price |
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Powell Peralta Ripper Skateboard Deck | 9.2/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Cheap Skate Decks Detailed Reviews
1. Moose Blank Skateboard Deck – Premium 7-Ply Maple Construction
Rating: 9.0/10
The Moose Blank Skateboard Deck in Natural Wood, 8.75″ offers a fantastic starting point for any skater. Its premium 7-ply maple construction promises durability and excellent pop for your tricks. This deck is a blank canvas, perfect for those who love to customize or want a straightforward, high-quality ride without the added cost of graphics.
What We Like:
- Premium 7-Ply Maple: This is the standard for a reason. It provides great strength and a responsive “pop” for ollies and other tricks.
- Modern Shape: The mellow concave and steep kicks offer a good balance of flex and stiffness, making it comfortable and lively.
- Versatile Size: At 8.75 inches, this deck is a great all-around size, suitable for skaters 13 and older looking for a full-size board.
- Affordable Quality: Because it’s blank, you get a high-quality deck without paying for graphics. This makes it a smart choice for your wallet.
- Customization Friendly: It’s perfect if you want to paint your own design or prefer a clean, natural wood look.
What Could Be Improved:
- No Pre-Applied Graphics: If you prefer a ready-to-ride deck with cool artwork, you’ll need to add your own.
- Requires Personalization: For some, the lack of graphics might mean a little extra work to make it their own.
This Moose blank deck is a solid choice for skaters who value performance and personalization. It’s a dependable and affordable option that lets you express your unique style.
2. Blank Skateboard Decks
Rating: 9.2/10
Unleash your inner artist and skater with these Blank Skateboard Decks! Measuring 17 x 5 inches, these wooden decks are perfect for DIY projects and beginners. You can paint or decorate them however you like, making each board uniquely yours. They are also great for replacing old decks or as a fun gift.
What We Like:
- High-Quality Materials: Made from sturdy, natural wood (7-layer maple), these decks are built to last. They are lightweight and strong, so they won’t break easily.
- Blank Canvas for Creativity: Both sides of the deck are blank, giving you plenty of space to paint your own designs. It’s a fantastic way to express your creativity.
- Classic Skateboard Shape: The decks have a classic concave shape. This design helps with flipping tricks and makes skating easier for all skill levels.
- Versatile Use: These decks are perfect for practicing your skating skills or for custom DIY projects. Give them as a gift to a friend or family member who loves to skate and create.
- Easy to Set Up: The decks come with pre-drilled holes, making it simple to attach your wheels. This makes replacing an old deck a breeze.
What Could Be Improved:
- Wheels Not Included: You’ll need to buy wheels separately to complete your skateboard.
- Size Might Be Small for Some: The 17 x 5 inch size is great for kids and beginners, but experienced skaters might prefer a larger deck.
These blank skateboard decks offer a fun and creative way to get into skateboarding or to personalize your ride. They provide a solid base for both artistic expression and practicing your skating moves.
3. Powell Peralta Sakura Yosozumi Tiger Skateboard Deck
Rating: 9.0/10
Get ready to shred like a pro with the Powell Peralta Sakura Yosozumi Tiger Skateboard Deck! This awesome deck is a tribute to Olympic gold medalist Sakura Yosozumi. It’s a solid 8.5 inches wide and 32.08 inches long, giving you plenty of space to land your tricks. The cool light blue color and the fierce tiger artwork by VCJ make this deck stand out. Whether you’re just starting or looking to upgrade, this deck is built for performance and style.
What We Like:
- This deck is officially endorsed by Olympic gold medalist Sakura Yosozumi.
- The 8.5″ width offers a stable and comfortable platform for riding.
- The 32.08″ length and 14.375″ wheelbase provide a good balance for various skating styles.
- The “Shape 244” with a full nose and tail is excellent for tricks and transitions.
- The K20 concave helps lock your feet in place for better control.
- The artwork by legendary artist VCJ is a major selling point for collectors and fans.
What Could Be Improved:
- Griptape is not included, so you’ll need to buy that separately.
- This is a deck only, meaning you’ll need to purchase trucks, wheels, and bearings to complete your setup.
This Powell Peralta deck is a fantastic choice for any skater who wants a high-quality board with a legendary connection. Grab yours and start making some noise on the street or at the park!
4. Powell Peralta Steve Caballero Gundam Skateboard Deck
Rating: 8.6/10
Get ready to shred with the Powell Peralta Steve Caballero Gundam Skateboard Deck! This awesome deck is built for performance and style, featuring a cool Gundam graphic that any fan will love. It’s made from strong maple wood, so it can handle all your tricks and grinds.
What We Like:
- The 8.5-inch width gives you a stable platform for riding and landing tricks.
- The 32.08-inch length offers plenty of foot space.
- The Shape 244 with its full nose and tail makes popping ollies and performing flip tricks easier.
- The K20 concave locks your feet in for better control during turns and maneuvers.
- It’s made from strong 7-ply maple, which is durable and reliable.
- The classic black color and awesome Gundam graphic look super cool.
What Could Be Improved:
- Griptape is not included, so you’ll need to buy that separately to get riding.
This deck is a fantastic choice for skaters who want a quality board with a unique design. Grab yours and hit the streets or the skatepark!
5. Powell Peralta Ripper Skateboard Deck
Rating: 9.4/10
Shred the streets with the iconic Powell Peralta Ripper Skateboard Deck in a vibrant Yellow Fade. This 8.5-inch wide deck offers a smooth ride and a classic look that skateboarders of all levels will appreciate. Its well-balanced dimensions make it a versatile choice for park, street, and cruising.
What We Like:
- The 8.5″ width provides a stable platform for landing tricks and cruising comfortably.
- The classic Ripper graphic is instantly recognizable and looks awesome.
- The Shape 249 with a tapered nose and tail is great for flip tricks.
- The K20 concave offers good foot lock for control during maneuvers.
- It’s a durable deck that can handle everyday skating.
What Could Be Improved:
- Griptape is not included, so you’ll need to buy that separately.
- The specific wheelbase might not be ideal for every single rider’s preference.
This Powell Peralta Ripper deck is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and stylish board. Get ready to roll!
Your Guide to Awesome & Affordable Skate Decks
So, you want to start skateboarding or just need a new deck without breaking the bank? That’s awesome! Finding a cheap skate deck doesn’t mean you have to settle for something that falls apart after a few sessions. We’re here to help you find a great deck that’s perfect for you.
Why Choose a Cheaper Deck?
Sometimes, you just need a reliable deck for learning new tricks, cruising around town, or just having fun. A cheaper deck lets you do that without worrying about damaging an expensive one. It’s also great if you’re on a budget but still want to enjoy skateboarding.
1. Key Features to Look For
Size Matters
Decks come in different widths. A narrower deck (7.5 to 8.0 inches) is usually easier to flip for tricks. Wider decks (8.0 inches and up) offer more stability and are great for cruising or riding ramps.
Shape Secrets
Most modern decks have a “popsicle” shape, which is good for almost everything. Some decks have a slightly different shape, like a “cruiser” shape with a wider nose, which is better for riding around.
Concave Coolness
Concave is the curve on the deck. A deeper concave helps your feet grip the board better for tricks. A flatter concave is more comfortable for cruising.
2. Important Materials
The Power of Maple
Most skate decks are made from Canadian Maple wood. It’s strong and pops well, which means it’s good for jumping and tricks. Cheaper decks will still use maple, but it might be from different regions or have fewer layers.
What About Other Stuff?
You might see decks made with other materials, but for affordable decks, maple is the way to go. Sometimes, cheaper decks might use fewer layers of wood or a different type of glue. This can make them a little less strong.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
How It’s Made
Good decks are pressed into their shape using heat and pressure. This makes them strong and helps them keep their shape. Cheaper decks might not be pressed as well, which can make them break easier.
Glue is Key
The glue holding the layers of wood together is super important. Stronger glues make the deck last longer. If a deck feels flimsy or makes creaking noises, the glue might not be the best.
The “Pop” Factor
Good decks have a good “pop.” This is how much the tail of the board springs up when you hit it on the ground. Cheaper decks might have less pop, making it harder to do certain tricks.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Beginner Bliss
If you’re just starting out, a slightly wider deck can make learning easier because it feels more stable. Don’t worry too much about advanced features; focus on getting comfortable with the basics.
Cruising Comfort
For just riding around, a deck with a bit more width and maybe a flatter concave will feel smooth and easy to control. You won’t need the super aggressive concave of a trick-focused board.
Trick Time
If you’re aiming to learn ollies and flips, look for a standard popsicle shape with a medium concave. Even on a budget, you can find decks that offer a decent pop for practicing.
Deck Care Tips
Keep your deck dry! Water can ruin the wood and make it weaker. Avoid skating in the rain or puddles. Store your board somewhere cool and dry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best width for a beginner skate deck?
A: For most beginners, a deck between 7.75 and 8.25 inches wide is a good starting point. It offers a nice balance of stability and maneuverability.
Q: Can I do tricks on a cheap skate deck?
A: Yes, you can! While they might not have the same “pop” or durability as more expensive decks, many affordable decks are perfectly capable of learning and performing basic tricks.
Q: How long should a cheap skate deck last?
A: The lifespan of any skate deck depends on how much you skate and what you do. For a cheaper deck, you might get several months to a year of regular use, especially if you’re learning or not doing super rough tricks.
Q: What does “7-ply” mean on a skate deck?
A: It means the deck is made of seven layers of maple wood glued together. This is the standard for good quality skate decks.
Q: Should I buy a complete skateboard or just a deck?
A: If you’re just starting, a complete skateboard is often a good value. But if you already have trucks, wheels, and bearings, buying just a deck is a great way to upgrade or try a new style.
Q: Does the graphic on the deck affect its performance?
A: No, the graphic is just the artwork on the bottom. It doesn’t change how the deck rides or feels.
Q: What’s the difference between a street deck and a park deck?
A: Street decks are usually a bit narrower and have a more defined concave for flip tricks. Park decks can be wider for stability on ramps and bowls.
Q: Can I skate on a cruiser board if I want to do tricks?
A: Cruiser boards are designed for riding and cruising, not usually for tricks. They often have different shapes and softer wheels that aren’t ideal for skateboarding tricks.
Q: Where can I find good deals on cheap skate decks?
A: Check out local skate shops, online skate retailers, and even sporting goods stores. Sales and clearance sections are your best friend!
Q: Is it okay to buy a used skate deck?
A: Buying used can be a great way to save money, but inspect it carefully for cracks, delamination (layers peeling apart), or excessive wear on the nose and tail before buying.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
My name is Gareth Lewis, and I’m the voice behind CampingGuider.com.. I created this space to share my passion for camping and the great outdoors. With years of experience and countless adventures under my belt, I aim to inspire and guide fellow enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a curious beginner, my goal is to provide you with practical tips, honest reviews, and insights to help you make the most out of your outdoor escapades. Join me on this journey, and let’s explore the beauty of nature together!